Spark of interest in electrical

Ashlee Herrmann (above, left) has just embarked on the most thrilling of careers. She is an electrical apprentice with Ergon Energy.

AT 20, Ashlee Herrmann has just embarked on the most thrilling of careers.

The former Yepoon trades assistant has scored one of 76 spots as an electrical apprentice with Ergon Energy.

Ms Herrmann moved to Cairns last week to start her new career.

“I’ve always been an outdoorsy person and I’ve always had some interest in electrical things,” Ms Herrmann said.

“I found it really interesting how it all works and how systems go together.

“My dad had a hobby in pinball machines and arcade games so he would sit there working on them and I’d pick up some stuff.

“Starting this job has been awesome. The whole crew is really welcoming and supportive and they want to help you strive to be the best.”

As with most apprentices, Ms Herrmann is combining practical work with study.

“There are so many opportunities in this job, I just don’t know what I will do,” she said.

“I could move or stay here and move up the ranks, you can go overseas.

“I really enjoy the challenge more than anything. I love challenges and I love the intensity it comes with them.

“I used to do a bit of electrical safety testing and tagging before getting this job and before that I did a bit of personal assistant work as a trade assist- ant to electricians in Yeppoon.

“It most definitely sparked the interest.”

A record number of women are among this year’s Ergon Energy apprentice in take.

The apprentices, including 14 women, were welcomed at inductions in Cairns, Townsville, Rockhampton, Maryborough and Toowoomba.

Energy Queensland chief executive David Smales said most crews throughout the state began their careers in the industry as apprentices.